Hooded Eyes
Hooded eyelids, also known as droopy eyelids, occur when excess skin folds over the natural crease of the eyelid, giving a heavy or sleepy appearance. This condition is extremely common and can affect individuals of all ages, although it becomes more prevalent with age due to changes in skin elasticity.
Understanding Hooded Eyelids
Hooded eyelids are characterised by excess skin drooping from the brow bone to the lash line, causing the upper eyelid to appear partially covered. While often hereditary, this feature can also develop or worsen with age as skin loses collagen and elastin, leading to sagging.
What Causes Hooded Eyelids?
Several factors can contribute to hooded eyelids, including:
•Genetics: Often, hooded eyelids run in families, making genetics a significant factor.
•Ageing: As we age, skin loses elasticity, and gravity pulls the skin downwards, leading to drooping.
•Lifestyle: Factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and sun exposure can accelerate the ageing process of the skin.
How to Tell If You Have Hooded Eyelids
To determine if you have hooded eyelids, observe if your upper eyelid is partially or mostly obscured by the skin when your eyes are open. Hooded eyelids can sometimes affect vision if the excess skin is severe enough to obstruct the visual field.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Hooded Eyelids
If your hooded eyelids are mild, several non-surgical methods may help improve appearance:
Botox and Dermal Fillers
Botox injections can lift the brow slightly, helping to reduce the appearance of hooded eyelids. Dermal fillers might also help by restoring volume around the eyes, subtly elevating the skin.
Thread Lifts
Thread lifts offer temporary improvements by placing dissolvable threads under the skin to lift and support the brow and eyelids.
Non-Surgical Skin Tightening Treatments
Devices such as radiofrequency (RF) treatments or ultrasound skin tightening (e.g., Ultherapy) stimulate collagen production, gently tightening the skin and reducing droopiness.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Simple lifestyle changes like adequate hydration, proper sleep, quitting smoking, and using high-quality SPF products can slow the progression of eyelid drooping.
Surgical Treatments for Hooded Eyelids
In cases of significant drooping or when vision is impaired, surgical intervention, known as blepharoplasty, is the most effective and permanent solution.
What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, involves removing excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat, from the eyelids. It can be performed on the upper lids, lower lids, or both.
Types of Eyelid Surgery
•Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty: Specifically targets and removes excess skin from the upper eyelids.
•Lower Eyelid Blepharoplasty: Typically addresses bags or puffiness under the eyes but can be combined with upper eyelid surgery.
Procedure Overview
Blepharoplasty is generally performed under local anaesthetic with sedation and takes approximately one to two hours. Your surgeon will make incisions within the natural eyelid crease to minimise visible scarring. Excess skin and fat are carefully removed, and the remaining skin is tightened and sutured.
Recovery and Results
After surgery, you can expect mild swelling and bruising, typically resolving within two weeks. Pain is usually minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Stitches, if not dissolvable, are usually removed after one week. Most patients return to normal activities within 7 to 14 days.
How Long Do Results Last?
Results from blepharoplasty are long-lasting, typically 10 to 15 years, although natural ageing processes will continue.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, potential risks include:
•Temporary blurred vision
•Swelling and bruising
•Infection
•Scarring
•Dry or irritated eyes
Serious complications are rare, especially when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Eyelid Surgery?
Ideal candidates for eyelid surgery are:
•Adults with realistic expectations
•Non-smokers
•Those in good overall health
•Individuals whose vision is affected by drooping eyelids
A thorough consultation with our qualified plastic surgeons at Deansgate Hospital Manchester will determine if this surgery is suitable for you.
Cost of Eyelid Surgery in Manchester
The cost of blepharoplasty in Manchester is from £4250 but this depends on the complexity and whether upper, lower, or both eyelids are treated.
FAQs About Hooded Eyelids and Eyelid Surgery
Does eyelid surgery hurt?
Most patients experience minimal pain or discomfort, easily managed with medication.
Will insurance cover eyelid surgery?
Insurance may cover eyelid surgery if drooping eyelids are affecting vision. It’s essential to check with your provider.
Can hooded eyelids return after surgery?
Eyelid surgery provides long-lasting results, although ageing will continue to affect the skin over time.
When will I see the final results?
Final results typically appear within several weeks once swelling and bruising subside.
Conclusion
Hooded eyelids, whether due to ageing or genetics, are common and treatable. From non-surgical solutions to effective surgical treatments like blepharoplasty, various options can significantly enhance your appearance and improve quality of life. Deansgate Hospital offers expert care and outstanding results for patients in Manchester, Cheshire, and beyond, ensuring personalised treatment tailored to your needs.
To discuss your options and achieve brighter, rejuvenated eyes, book your consultation with our specialists today.
